An apprenticeship scheme run by Swindon Borough Council's housing department has been shortlisted for a national award.

The scheme is one of three across the county to be put forward for the Best Apprenticeship at the National Housing Maintenance Federation awards.

The judges say: "Swindon's clear commitment to apprenticeships and succession planning has resulted in a good outcome for the apprentices and benefits to the organisation in reduced recruitment costs and better qualified 'home grown' staff.'"

Shakira West-Moreland, 28, finished her five year Level two and three apprenticeship with the council last year and is now working full-time with the planned maintenance team.

She said: "I started as a stay-at-home mum with no qualifications and now I'm fully qualified, with a good career and it's done wonders for my confidence.

"I worked in a number of teams, and the support you get from people with real practical knowledge was excellent and they really had bought into the apprenticeship.

"Now I'm seeing apprentices come though after me, and I'm supporting them."

Coun Cathy Martyn, the council's cabinet member for housing said: "It's great to see the commitment of the apprentices and their mentors rewarded. We see very good outcomes from it: good outcomes for apprentices like Shakira, and for us, because we get excellent, qualified staff."

The wards results will be announced later in January